London, United Kingdom. Britain reported a sharp rise in drone incidents near military sites in 2025, prompting the government to expand military powers to counter aerial threats. Defence minister John Healey said the change reflects the evolving nature of warfare.
Incidents near defence sites
In 2025, there were 266 reported uncrewed aerial vehicle incidents near defence sites in Britain, up from 126 reported in 2024. The figures were described as part of a wider trend of European airspace being targeted by drones.
“The doubling of rogue drones near military sites in the UK in the last year underlines the increasing and changing nature of the threats we face,” Healey said in a statement on Monday.
European disruptions and allegations
Drone incursions forced airports in Belgium and Denmark to close for hours at a time in the last few months of 2025. Experts said the incidents had the hallmarks of Russian interference, a charge denied by Moscow.
Expanded military powers
Healey said military officers would be given new powers to destroy drones operating near British bases, an action that previously required the involvement of the police. The new powers also allow the military to destroy land drones and unmanned vehicles operating under water.
Site security and recent breach
Healey said security at military sites had been stepped up. Last June, pro-Palestinian activists broke into a Royal Air Force base, damaging and spraying red paint over two planes used for refuelling and transport.
What measures do you think should be prioritised to protect defence sites from drone incursions?